These Natural Hot Springs in the US are What Winter Dreams are Made of
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Is there anything more magical and inviting than a misty, secluded hot spring on a cold winter day?
The Western United States is teeming with natural hot springs just waiting for you to discover them.
Visiting hot springs in winter often requires a trek through the snowy wilderness, and sometimes they’re right on the side of the road. I love them all, and the harder they are to get to, the sweeter the reward.
We’ve rounded up the best natural hot springs in the United States so you can discover them for yourself.
Pack your towel and your sense of adventure, because these amazing geothermal sites are perfect for visiting throughout the year, but they’re especially enchanting in the winter.
These winter hot springs are secluded, not too far from the trailhead, and warm enough to relax in on a chilly winter day.
The downside is that virtually all of the primitive hot springs in the United States are found west of the Mississippi River. Have I mentioned that yet? Secret hot springs road trip, anyone?
Natural Hot Springs in New Mexico
New Mexico is home to a variety of different hot springs, from secluded pools that require a long trek into the wilderness to upscale hot spring resorts that cost a week’s pay to enjoy.
The following are two of our favorite wild hot springs in New Mexico, perfect for winter soaking!
Spence Hot Springs: Jemez Canyon, New Mexico
Located in the Santa Fe National Forest, a short hike leads to Spence Hot Springs, offering spectacular views and warm thermal waters.
These natural hot springs are a popular destination on weekends, especially in the summer. Since you’ve got winter on your side, you shouldn’t have a problem with crowds. Nudity is prohibited at Spence Hot Springs.
Make your trek to Spence Hot Springs in the early morning, and you’re practically guaranteed solitude. The only downside to this small pool is that temperatures have been cooling in recent years, now hovering around body temperature. This may be too cool for some and perfect for others.
The Spence Hot Spring pool is quite small, accommodating five to ten people at a time. For more information, check out the Santa Fe National Forest website.
Google Maps directions to Spence Hot Springs
Where to stay: Your best bet is to camp in the Santa Fe National Forest near the springs. There are a few campgrounds near Spence Hot Springs, including Vista Linda Campground, which is very clean, costs only $10 per night, and is suitable for large RVs.
San Antonio Hot Springs: Santa Fe National Forest, New Mexico
These secluded New Mexico Hot Springs are tucked away on the side of a mountain, providing stellar views as you soak. There are four or five hot spring pools of varying temperatures, perfect for winter soaking. San Antonio Hot Springs is just 10 miles from Spence Hot Springs, so be sure to visit them both!
To get to San Antonio Hot Springs, you must drive about five miles on an incredibly rough road (4WD only), followed by a .7-mile hike.
If you don’t have a four-wheel-drive vehicle, the hike is closer to six miles. The road closes after heavy snow, so be sure to check the Forest Service website before visiting.
San Antonio Hot Springs does get busy during the summer months, but if you visit in the off-season, you’ll likely have the place to yourself.
Google Maps directions to San Antonio Hot Springs
Where to Stay: The nearest campground is San Antonio Campground, about seven miles from San Antonio Hot Springs. It is open from May to October, and sites can be reserved in advance on Recreation.gov. This is a National Forest campground with 20 sites, each costing $10-$15 per night.
Natural Hot Springs in California
California has abundant natural hot springs in all corners of the state. It’s a geologically active landscape just waiting to be explored. Here are a few of our favorite California hot springs.
Keough Hot Spring: Eastern Sierras – Bishop, California
The coolest part about Keough Hot Springs is that you can have a pretty laid-back resort experience for a fee, or you can experience the primitive natural hot spring tubs for free.
Normally, I wouldn’t even mention Keough’s Hot Springs Resort, but it’s pretty awesome for a commercial facility.
They maintain several outdoor pools, a campground, a couple of tent cabins, and “modular retreats,” otherwise known as mobile homes. The place is pretty quiet in the winter, and it caters to families, so it’s really clean and quiet.
Now for a walk on the wild side. Just below Keough’s Hot Springs Resort are a few rustic soaking pools. They’re right off the road, so little or no hiking is required. These natural hot springs overlook the high desert and are generally clean and uncrowded, especially during the winter months.
Nudity is common among soakers at Keough Hot Springs, and people seem to be respectful of this special place.
To get there, take Keough Hot Springs Road and head toward the resort, then turn right on the second dirt road. After you cross the stream, the hot springs will be on your left. There’s no camping at the hot springs, but there are lots of camping nearby in the national forest.
Google Map Directions to Keough Hot Springs
Where to stay: You can certainly stay on-site at Keough’s Hot Springs, which offers private rooms and campsites. The pet-friendly Vagabond Inn in nearby Bishop has comfy rooms and an outdoor pool, and the closest camping is in the Big Pine Area of Inyo National Forest, but many of these are closed in the winter.
Wild Willy’s Hot Springs: Mammoth Lake, California
Wild Willy’s Hot Springs is in the Long Valley Caldera near Mammoth Lakes.
While these springs are easy to get to and well known, they are also serene and beautiful, and 100% worth the trip.
You’ll find two hot spring pools (also known as Crowley Hot Springs) at the end of a short boardwalk.
While the temperature of the hot springs varies from day to day, the range is typically between 95°F and 105°F.
As you soak, take in the fabulous mountain views — the eastern escarpment of the Sierra Nevada to the west and the Glass Mountain Ridge to the east.
The area known as Mammoth Lakes is a geothermal hot spot with many natural hot springs nearby. In the winter, you can travel the dirt roads looking for tell-tale signs of rising steam and find your own secluded gem.
While in the area, be sure to check out Hot Creek Geological Site within Inyo National Forest. Swimming is prohibited here as the water temperatures are unpredictable and often too hot for comfort.
Google Maps directions to Wild Willy’s Hot Springs
Where to stay: There are several camping areas within a half-hour drive of Wild Willy’s Hot Springs, including Mammoth Mountain Campground (private) and Twin Lakes Campground (federal), which is lakefront.
Need more space to spread out? This pet-friendly condo has a full kitchen and room for five people. It’s within walking distance of great hiking, skiing, and dining, too!
Natural Hot Springs in Oregon
Let’s take a moment to head up to the Pacific Northwest on our hot springs journey. There are around 50 known hot spring pools in Oregon that are suitable for soaking in, but these are our favorites.
Deer Creek Hot Springs, Oregon: Central Cascades
Deer Creek Hot Springs, also known as Bigelow Hot Springs, is a small pool located next to the McKenzie River in the Central Cascades of Oregon.
With room for just four people, it’s imperative that you hit this one up in the early or late hours of the day. It closes after sunset to keep things from getting rowdy.
These natural Oregon hot springs are a lovely 103℉ in the summer months. In the winter, it can be much colder because it mixes with the nearby river water.
For more information and directions to these luscious hot springs, check out Oregon Discovery.
Google Map directions to Bigelow/Deer Creek Hot Springs
Where to stay: You will find more camping opportunities than lodging near Bigelow Hot Springs, with many private and national forest campgrounds nearby. For lodging, we recommend Horse Creek Lodge & Outfitters, which has lovely cabins for rent with full kitchens and Wi-Fi.
Umpqua Hot Springs (Toketee Hot Springs): Umpqua National Forest, Oregon
This terrace of hot spring pools is located on the Umpqua River and is easily accessible after a short, 0.4-mile hike to Umpqua Hot Springs.
Because the trail is short, you can expect to share the hot springs with other soakers unless you head up early (like 6 am early). You can also expect nudity, but I would say that’s a given at most hot springs.
Umpqua Hot Springs sits high above the river, with spectacular forest views. The water in the uppermost pool is a relaxing 108 degrees Fahrenheit, and each pool is progressively cooler as it travels down the slope.
The trailhead and surrounding area are designated for day-use only, and a vault toilet is available in the parking area.
A parking fee of $5 is required to help maintain the site. There are lots of waterfalls, hiking, and camping in the area. Read about some of the other Umpqua National Forest adventures on Oregon is For Adventure.
Google Maps directions to Umpqua Hot Springs
Where to stay: If you’re camping, we recommend Toketee Lake Campground, which is run by the National Forest Service and can’t be reserved in the winter. There are 33 primitive sites, but they are only $10 a night. Did I mention that the campground is right on Toketee Lake? Very pretty!
There are many lodging options in Oakridge, including this riverfront cottage with room for ten people and pets!
Hart Mountain Hot Springs: Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge
Located on a desert plateau deep in the wilds of Central Oregon, Hart Mountain Hot Springs is rarely crowded, especially in the winter. However, heavy snow may make getting here a challenge during the coldest months.
A rustic concrete and rock structure surrounds the main pool, but the water is pleasantly warm at 102 °F (38.89 °C).
There is a small, more natural soaking pool a short walk from the main pool.
Just look for the steam rising from the grass. This wild hot spring is warmer than the main pool, and there’s the added benefit of expansive views from every direction. You will find pit toilets nearby. Clothing is optional.
Where to stay: Camping? Definitely stay at the Hart Mountain Hot Springs primitive campground (free, no-reservations); don’t expect any luxuries! The nearest lodging is in the town of Plush, about an hour and a half drive from the hot springs. See why camping makes sense?
Natural Hot Springs in Idaho
There are more than 130 hot springs in Idaho that are suitable for soaking in, making this state one of the hot spots for thermal activity.
A winter hot springs road trip would be perfect in Idaho.
Remember, winter is really winter here, so if you decide to visit during the colder months, bring your snowshoes and the ten essentials, and let someone know where you’ll be.
Bonneville Hot Springs: Lowman, Idaho
If you’re planning the ultimate hot springs road trip, Idaho is the place to be, but if you can only choose one natural hot spring to visit, choose Bonneville Hot Springs.
Bonneville Hot Springs can be found at the end of an easy ¼ mile hike. You may need snowshoes, but that just makes it more fun.
There are several pools here for soaking and even a soak shack with a bathtub and piped-in water. There’s a great little campground open from spring through fall, but visiting when the campground is open makes for a more crowded soaking experience.
Head out in January and you’ll be rewarded with sandy-bottomed pools all to yourself. To learn more about Bonneville Hot Springs, head over to the Boise National Forest website.
Google Map Directions to Bonneville Hot Springs
Where to stay: Campgrounds around Bonneville Hot Springs will be closed during the winter months. However, if you visit during warmer weather, consider Bonneville Campground, a federally run campground with sites available for $15 per night.
The town of Lowman is about 19 miles away, and there are a few lodging opportunities available year-round. Need more space? Check out Sourdough Lodge, which has different room configurations and cabins.
Goldbug Hot Springs: Salmon, Idaho
At the end of a steep and well-traveled two-mile trail in Salmon, Idaho, you will find the oasis that is Goldbug Hot Springs (also called Elk Bend Hot Springs).
While the climb is steady and rises more than 1,500 feet, the reward is a magnificent hot spring pool hugging the side of a cliff.
The water tumbles over the cliffside, forming a 15-foot waterfall of deliciously hot water to feed two more soaking pools below. The pools farthest from the top are cooler as the water flows away from the heat source. Temperatures also vary depending on what time of year you’re visiting.
Google Maps directions to Goldbug Hot Springs
Where to stay: There are a few flat campsites near the trail before you get to the hot springs if you don’t mind roughing it. The town of Salmon, just north of the trailhead, has a few lodging options, including the Stagecoach Inn, which has an outdoor pool, modest but clean rooms, and free breakfast.
Natural Hot Springs in Nevada
Nevada is often referred to as the hot springs capital of the United States, boasting more than 300 pools scattered throughout its vast landscape. Add that to a relatively mild climate in the winter months, and you’ve got the makings of an awesome hot springs road trip. Here are some of our favorite secret hot springs in Nevada.
Ruby Valley Hot Springs: Ruby Valley Refuge, Nevada
Located at 7,000 feet above sea level in Ruby Valley of Central Nevada, this beautiful marshy area is home to several primitive hot spring pools known as Ruby Valley Hot Springs.
The largest pool is about 100 °F (37.8 °C) and is more than 30 feet deep. There are several smaller pools nearby. Be sure to test the water first, as some hot springs may be too hot for soaking!
The whole area surrounding Ruby Valley Hot Springs is marshy with mud surrounding the hot springs, but if you don’t mind the mud, you’ll love this place. The road to Ruby Valley Hot Springs is rough, but you can make the trip without a 4WD vehicle.
Visit the USA directions to Ruby Valley Hot Springs
Where to stay: There is camping in Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge at South Ruby Lake Campground. Sites are $17 and can be reserved in advance. The nearest hotels are more than an hour away in the town of Elko.
Panaca Warm Springs: Panaca, Nevada
Panaca Warm Springs are the only springs on our list that aren’t actually hot. They maintain a constant 85 °F (29.4 °C) year-round. It’s also one of the clearest and largest pools you’ll find — perfect for swimming!
Panaca is a small town in eastern Nevada, and many local residents visit Panaca Warm Springs in the summer. A quick dip may be all you can handle in the winter, but it will be a lovely dip!
Because the water is warm, not hot, you will share your soak with fish and frogs, but the bottom is delightfully sandy.
While in the area, be sure to visit nearby Cathedral Gorge State Park, featuring interesting rock formations and a gorgeous canyon trail.
Google Maps directions to Panaca Warm Springs
Where to stay: Definitely camp at Cathedral Gorge State Park. It’s an oasis in the desert and so beautiful. Nearby Panaca has a few small hotels, restaurants, and shops. The Pine Tree Inn and Bakery is rustic and clean.
For even more wild hot springs, head north into Canada – specifically, British Columbia, where there is a plethora of steamy waters to enjoy.
If hiking to a secluded hot spring for soaking isn’t your thing, check out some incredible hot springs resorts in the United States.
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